Community Foundation Announces New Fund in Memory of Sgt. David J. Smith

JUNE 11, 2010: The Community Foundation has announced The Sgt. David J. Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by his parents and step-parents to honor his memory.

Sgt. Smith, a member of the United States Marine Corps, was deployed to Afghanistan in October, 2009. He was killed in the line of duty in the Helmund Provence in January, 2010. His first tour of duty was in Iraq in 2006-2007, with the 4th LAR BN, Bravo Company of Frederick, Maryland. Sgt. Smith was raised in Frederick and was an enthusiastic athlete from a young age, participating in wrestling, playing basketball, lacrosse, football, soccer and golf. In addition to sports, Sgt. Smith was involved in theatre and student government. After graduating from Frederick High School, he attended Salisbury University. In 2003, he joined the Marine Corps, and later attended East Carolina University. Sgt. Smith was a Marine and a patriot, and was honored and proud to serve his country. His family and friends remember him as a loving and caring person with an infectious laugh and great sense of humor.

The Sgt. David J. Smith Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to Frederick High School graduating seniors who show leadership qualities, have an outstanding community service record, are active in their faith, and display a strong sense of patriotism. The first scholarship from the Fund will be awarded in the 2011-2012 academic year.

“David loved Frederick High School” said Mary Jane McWilliams, David’s mother. “During his four years there, Frederick High prepared him well for the future he hoped to have. Through his active school involvement and wonderful group of friends who were so important to him, David came away enriched from those experiences. Knowing how he felt about Frederick High School, my family and I want to honor his memory by awarding this scholarship to a student who exemplifies the caring, strength of spirit and devotion of David Smith."

Those who wish to benefit The Sgt. David J. Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund can make a secure, online donation by clicking here. Checks made payable to The Community Foundation of Frederick County may be mailed to 312 East Church Street, Frederick, Maryland, 21701, with the name of the fund on the memo line. All donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Memorial funds are one of the many ways The Community Foundation of Frederick County transforms the unique charitable dreams of individuals, families and organizations into the reality of charitable funds supporting a range of worthy causes. Over one-fourth of the funds held by the Community Foundation honor the memories of deceased loved ones by continuing to touch lives in meaningful ways in their names. To date, the Community Foundation has provided more than $23 million in scholarships and grants throughout Frederick County. For additional information about the Community Foundation, please call 301.695.7660.